Melasma is a common skin condition that causes dark, discolored patches, usually on the face. It is frustrating, stubborn, and can be hard to treat. But with the right approach, significant improvement is possible. At Noor Dermatology & Aesthetics in Cary, Dr. Zain Husain, MD offers customized treatment plans for melasma that go beyond one size fits all solutions. Patients from Morrisville, Chapel Hill, and Raleigh trust him to help them achieve clearer, more even toned skin.

A Word from Dr. Husain

“Melasma is one of the most challenging skin conditions I treat. It does not respond to quick fixes or aggressive treatments. In fact, the wrong treatment can make it worse. But with patience, the right skincare, and in-office procedures done carefully, most patients see real improvement. My goal is to give you realistic expectations and a plan that actually works.”

Dr. Zain Husain, MD
Board-Certified Dermatologist, Noor Dermatology & Aesthetics

What Is Melasma?

Melasma is a condition that causes brown or gray brown patches to appear on the skin, most commonly on the face. It is much more common in women than men, and it tends to affect people with darker skin tones, including Hispanic, Asian, Middle Eastern, and African American individuals.

The exact cause is not fully understood, but melasma is triggered by hormonal changes like pregnancy, birth control pills, or hormone replacement therapy. Sun exposure is a major trigger, as UV light stimulates pigment producing cells. Heat and visible light, including light from screens and indoor lighting, can also worsen melasma. Genetics play a role too, as melasma often runs in families.

Dr. Husain has helped patients from Apex, Durham, and across the Triangle manage their melasma and feel more confident in their skin.

What Does Melasma Look Like?

Melasma appears as flat patches of dark skin, usually in a symmetrical pattern on the face. The most common locations are the cheeks and bridge of the nose, the forehead, the upper lip, and the chin. Less commonly, melasma can appear on the forearms, neck, or chest. The patches are not painful or itchy. They are purely a cosmetic concern, but they can be very distressing for patients who feel self conscious about their appearance.

Treatment Options for Melasma at Noor Dermatology

There is no one time cure for melasma. But with consistent treatment and sun protection, most patients see significant lightening of their dark patches.

Topical prescription creams are the first line of treatment. Dr. Husain may prescribe hydroquinone, tretinoin, azelaic acid, kojic acid, or a combination cream. These work by slowing down pigment production. Results take weeks to months, but they are often very good.

Chemical peels can help by removing the top layers of pigmented skin. Dr. Husain uses gentle, medium depth peels specifically formulated for melasma. Aggressive peels can actually make melasma worse, so he is very careful. Light based therapies like fractional lasers or intense pulsed light (IPL) may help some patients, but they must be used with extreme caution because the wrong laser can worsen melasma. Dr. Husain only recommends these treatments for select patients. For stubborn melasma that does not respond to topical treatments, oral medications like tranexamic acid may be prescribed.

“The most important thing to know about melasma is that sun protection is not optional,” Dr. Husain says. “If you do not protect your skin from UV and visible light, no treatment will work long term.”

Daily Management: What You Can Do at Home

Dr. Husain recommends several steps for anyone with melasma. Wear a broad spectrum physical sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide and SPF 30 or higher every single day. Look for tinted sunscreens that also block visible light, which triggers melasma. Wear a wide brimmed hat when you are outside. Avoid heat from saunas, hot yoga, or cooking over a hot stove. Use gentle skincare products because harsh scrubs or irritating ingredients can worsen melasma. And most importantly, be patient. Improvement takes weeks to months.

We carry medical-grade sunscreens in our online store and at our Cary office that are excellent for melasma patients.

 Browse our Sunscreen Collection →

Frequently Asked Questions About Melasma

Q: Can melasma go away on its own?
Sometimes. Melasma caused by pregnancy, often called chloasma or the “mask of pregnancy,” often fades after delivery. But for many people, melasma is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management.

Q: Will my melasma come back after treatment?
Yes, melasma can return, especially with sun exposure or hormonal changes. That is why daily sun protection and maintenance treatments are so important.

Q: Are over the counter skin lighteners safe?
Many over the counter lightening creams contain unregulated ingredients, mercury, or steroids. Dr. Husain strongly recommends avoiding them. Stick with prescription treatments from a board certified dermatologist.

Q: Does melasma mean something is wrong with my hormones?
Not necessarily. Melasma is often triggered by normal hormonal changes like pregnancy or birth control use. But if your melasma appeared suddenly for no clear reason, Dr. Husain may recommend a checkup with your primary care doctor.

Q: Can men get melasma?
Yes, though it is much less common. About 10 percent of melasma cases are in men. The causes and treatments are the same.

Ready to Start Your Melasma Treatment?

If dark patches on your face are making you feel self conscious, you do not have to live with them. Dr. Husain can create a customized treatment plan for your unique skin.

Call our Cary office today or request an appointment online. He will examine your skin, discuss your goals, and help you get started on a path to clearer, more even toned skin.

 Noor Dermatology & Aesthetics – Cary, NC
Proudly serving patients from Raleigh, Durham, Apex, Morrisville, Chapel Hill, and across the Triangle